We now enter the second decade of the second millennium! 2010 will definitely be a year to watch – with many different  events happening such as the Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympics as well as the 2010 Philippine Elections. It will definitely be very interesting to be part of a global spectacle because it is going to be held where I live! Looking back to the post that I made last January, I wrote some goals that I wanted to achieve this past year. This year has gone by too fast – I guess when you’re always busy that is how it is. It’s also the first time I didn’t go back to the Philippines during the summer break – a different feeling because I got to spend time working and enjoying a different kind of summer.

The goals that I listed back in 2009:

1. Study hard, but have fun as well. [I would say, I tried my best but I felt like I could used my time more effectively in studying. The results that I've received this year is reflective of the effort that I put into it - so... no comments there I suppose?]
2. Participate and plan for activities that will help others, especially those who are less fortunate. [The first part of the sentence - yes, I was able to participate and join great initiatives, but for the 2nd part not as much - I really hope to be able to be more involved in helping local and international charities in the coming year.]
3. Exercise, be active in sports, and be fit! [Obviously, this has not been achieved. This 2010 I promise!]
4. Improve relationships with family, friends, and loved ones. [Hard to say, but I think I learned so many things this year, especially about patience and understanding others.]
5. A more active spiritual life. [I finally got the chance to participate in a discipleship course which has been very challenging yet significant and meaningful. Looking forward to continuing through to Part II of the series in January.]
6. Blog every once in a while. [I'll let you guys judge, but I know I definitely failed on this aspect.]

2009 has definitely been a challenging and big year for many of us. We started the year off with Obama’s inauguration, witnessed the passing of influential figures in our society, saw the impact of global warming and lack of human discipline through typhoons and other natural disasters, and learned to appreciate the simple things in life. In 2010, I wish for prosperity and peace to be in our world. More importantly, I wish that in 2010, I would be living the simple life, appreciating and living out what the Lord provides and plans for me, and improving relationships with loved ones.

3 more days and then I head back to reality – with work, school, and other commitments. It’s just been really nice to be able to recharge and relax. I don’t know if I’m ready to head back, but that’s something that is inevitable. I’m sure that in 2010, the Lord will continue to be by my side, as long as I stay with Him.

So… HAPPY NEW YEAR everyone! I look forward (once again) to posting more blog entries in the coming year. Meanwhile, enjoy the fireworks and your media noche!

Baked last December 30, 2009 for a Christmas Party